For travellers and divers of all experience levels, there are few places as beautiful or as scenic as the South Californian coast. Diving in California allows trips underwater during the day and experiencing city life at night. There are dozens of great scuba-diving spots for those interested in diving in California, but there are a few that should be at the top of the itinerary for every diver. By doing a simple web search or working with a travel agent, travellers can find these hot spots, set up day trips, and beat the crowds to the great diving sites.

One of the best California dive sites is off the coast of Catalina Island. The island itself is a scenic look back to grazing pastures of the 19th century, but the clear and beautiful waters of the Pacific Ocean are a beacon for amateur and professional divers. The variety of underwater cliffs and caves means that divers can do some extensive underwater exploration. For those interested in observing some of the greatest flora and fauna in the underwater world, the vast kelp forests and the abundant sea life will keep divers underwater all day long. The California moray eel and two spot octopus are two of the hundreds of different aquatic animals that reside off Catalina Island.

For those looking for something a little different, San Clemente Island is a great choice. This California dive site features the USS Butler, a sunken naval ship that is a tourist favourite. As well, the abundant lobsters, pink and green abalone, and purple coral will be great viewing for those in love with nature. Finally, a trip to San Clemente's deep waters can also include spear fishing of great game. With a sunken ship, great wildlife, and the fun of the hunt, visitors to this California dive site will have no shortage of stories for friends and family.

One more diving site in California that is popular is San Nicolas Island, which is considered by many to be ideal for professional scuba divers. The monster lobsters and huge scallops are out of this world, and professional divers will be able to appreciate their place in San Nicolas' underwater environment. As well, the popular diving spot Begg Rock is an ideal place for diving in California, when the tide isn't too high. For those who want a little bit of a challenge in their diving trip, San Nicolas is for them.